Dr. Ping's Product Recommendations

September 21, 2025

We are constantly bombarded by consumer goods and quick fixes, and shopping for dental products can be overwhelming. And while there is no one product for all needs or individuals, I wanted to make a list of what I am currently recommending for patients. 
This is a list that I continue to update and adjust as new products come out and as evidence supports their uses. 
Hope some of these products are useful for you!

1. Floss: Avoid PFTE or tape floss. This may contain PFAS/teflon and it is not effective for interproximal cleaning. Thicker, woven floss can help clean better. I also like to check for refillable containers and biodegradable floss!

Try: Reach Waxed, Coco Floss, Mother Earth Floss or floss picks, David's expanding floss


2. Toothbrushes: Electric toothbrushes are great. Built-in timer and pressure sensors are some nice features to have. Always go for the soft bristles.

Try: Sonicare 4100 or Diamond Clean, Sonicare kids

3. Toothpaste: Fluoride is a standard in anti-cavity protection. If you are looking for alternatives or extra benefit ingredients, look for toothpastes containing xylitol (anti-microbial and can help with dry mouth) or nano-hydroxyapatite (remineralizes).  For sensitive teeth, look for toothpastes containing Potassium Nitrate. If you have sensitive teeth or recession, seek out a low abrassive toothpaste. Also great to get a paste that does not contain Sodium laurel sulfate or SLS foaming agent as this can be harsh for some mouths and soft tissue.

Try: Dr. Jen's, All Day Dry mouth (prescription only), Sensodyne Pro Namel

4. Nasal Hygiene Products: Nasal breathing reduces inflammation in the mouth and also means that there is less sticky plaque accumulating in a dried out environment. Working with your primary care provider can also be helpful in determining if there are any underlying health causes for mouth breathing. Saline sprays containing xylitol are a great option since they help clear debris, reduce microbial and viral loads and also create patency in the nasal passages.  Nasal dilators are also a non-invasive approach to trying to improve nasal breathing.

Try: Neil Med saline with xylitol sinus rinse bottles or spray cans, Xlear nasal spray, Mute nasal dilators, Intake strips 

 
5. Lip Tape: If you are exploring lip taping, please consult with your primary care doctor if you have any serious health conditions such as diabetes or severe sleep apnea. Lip taping should be tried during the day before using at night. Complete sealing of the opening of the mouth is not recommended. Apply in a vertical and central position of roll tape or pre-cut circumferential tape that allows puffing out lips or breathing through mouth.

Try: 3M micro pore 1", myotape

5. Waterpik: All of our hygienists recommend waterpiks! Look for the countertop models that have a water tank and small corded handle. We've found these are the most adjustable and powerful.

Try: Waterpik Aquarius or Waterpik Ion 

Reach out to us if you have more questions!